Kearney Planning Commission votes on new regulations for data centers
The Kearney Planning Commission voted on new regulations for data centers, introducing stringent rules for future projects in the city. These regulations include mandatory setbacks for sound-emitting equipment from residential areas and a required third-party water feasibility study. While one company found the rules strict, some residents voiced concerns that they were not strong enough.
The Kearney Planning Commission discussed and adopted new regulations for data center development within the city, which will apply to all future projects. These stringent rules include a requirement for sound-emitting equipment to be at least 1,000 feet from residential property lines and mandate a third-party water feasibility study at the permit stage.
A company that has proposed building a data center in Kearney expressed that the new regulations are very strict. However, some members of the public argued that the regulations were insufficient, questioning the city's ability to enforce them effectively and prevent potential environmental and noise damage. Residents specifically voiced concerns about the long-term impact on water resources and sound pollution, implying that proactive measures were needed rather than relying on punitive actions post-violation.
Kearney City Manager Brenda Jensen clarified that all future data center projects would be required to comply with these new regulations, making companies liable for adherence. She noted that an existing cryptocurrency mining facility in Kearney, which operates without significant water use, is the only data center currently exempt from the proposed rules, as no other building permits for data centers have been issued.